The Wirecutter Show

Joel Santo Domingo, a senior staff writer at Wirecutter specializing in consumer tech, shares invaluable insights on improving internet connectivity. He unveils three simple fixes most people overlook for faster speeds and discusses the importance of router placement and wired connections. Listeners learn about the advantages of fiber internet versus traditional options like cable and the necessity of understanding upload speeds. Santo Domingo also provides tips on negotiating internet plans and highlights essential tools for testing and improving home networks.

Jackie Reeve, a staff senior writer at Wirecutter specializing in textiles, shares her expertise on the art of towel shopping. She humorously demystifies the towel dilemma and offers practical tips on selecting and caring for towels to ensure their longevity. The conversation dives into the distinctions between terry, waffle, and peshtemal towels, exploring personal preferences and relationships influenced by towel choices. Jackie also reveals quirky insights, like the fascinating lack of wetness receptors in humans, making the topic unexpectedly engaging!

Uncomfortable beds can ruin your sleep, so the hosts dive into how to enhance your current mattress and make informed choices when shopping for a new one. They share insights from a two-and-a-half-year mattress testing journey, discussing luxury versus affordability. Discover practical tips to improve sleep quality and maintenance, alongside expert advice on the importance of the right fit. Plus, a comprehensive guide to navigating the mattress market, including sales strategies and testing options to ensure your ultimate sleep comfort.

Samantha Schoech, a talented staff writer at Wirecutter specializing in gift recommendations, breaks down delightful and unconventional ways to celebrate Valentine's Day. She emphasizes the importance of meaningful gifting over clichés like chocolates and roses. Listeners discover luxurious gift ideas such as silk hair accessories and exquisite cookies. Schoech also shares insights on self-love and thoughtful presents that cater to every relationship, highlighting unique options like paper flowers and simple gold chains.

Dive into the world of laundry troubles as listeners share their most frustrating stain experiences. From mysterious spills to stubborn marks, each story reveals the creative and often comical attempts at removal. Tune in for expert advice from a stain guru, who offers tips and tricks to tackle even the toughest blemishes. Join the fun as common laundry woes are turned into engaging tales of perseverance and problem-solving!

Join Bianca Alba, a non-binary sexual health educator and Wirecutter's sex toy writer with a master's in public health, as they dive into the often-overlooked world of personal lubricants. Discover why lube enhances sexual pleasure and how to choose the best one for your needs. They break down the different types of lubricants—water-based, silicone, hybrid, and oil-based—while sharing tips on ingredient safety and addressing common myths. Plus, find out about coconut oil as an eco-friendly alternative!

Kit Dillon, a senior staff writer at Wirecutter specializing in travel, shares his expert insights on choosing the right luggage. He discusses the pros and cons of hard vs. soft shell bags and offers practical packing tips. Personal anecdotes add humor, like a wild encounter with an alligator at a baggage claim. Kit emphasizes investing in quality luggage and provides recommendations for carry-ons, duffels, and packing cubes, ensuring travelers have the best gear for adventures. Prepare to pack smarter and travel easier!

Ingrid Skjong, a former fitness writer turned large appliance editor and certified personal trainer, joins Seth Berkman, Wirecutter's senior staff fitness writer and home gym expert. They discuss why strength training is crucial for health at any age, share tips for starting at-home workouts, and recommend essential equipment like adjustable dumbbells and pull-up bars. The conversation also tackles overcoming gym intimidation and the benefits of personalized fitness approaches, motivating listeners to enhance their well-being through strength training.

Andrea Barnes, a Wirecutter staff writer with a knack for large appliances, joins the discussion on maximizing dishwasher efficiency. She tackles common household conflicts over dishwashing habits, humorously contrasting the meticulous 'white glovers' with the chaotic 'raccoons.' Listeners learn effective loading techniques, the best detergents, and insights into cleaning and maintaining dishwashers. Andrea also sheds light on how modern dishwashers outperform hand washing in efficiency and sanitation, making a strong case for their indispensable role in our kitchens.

Join Ben Keough, Wirecutter's supervising editor with over six years of expertise in home office gear, as he shares insights on the printer conundrum. Most printers are frustrating and expensive! He unveils tips for buying a reliable printer, comparing the pros and cons of inkjet versus laser models. Discover how to save on ink costs and why refurbished printers are worth considering. Ben also highlights modern alternatives to traditional printing, making your home office setup more efficient and stress-free.